In the U.S., about 25,000 births occur each year in the home, which equals approximately 0.06 percent of total births, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. While vastly outnumbered still by hospital deliveries, home births allow you to remain in a comfortable, serene and familiar setting as you bring your baby into the world. Weigh the particulars of your situation to determine if a home birth is right for you.
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Bring Your Vision into Focus
Gain Control
Home births offer you the opportunity to labor as you choose versus at the direction of the hospital or physician. "You don't have to fight for what you want and are able to travel through the path of birth with confidence and grace," Chana observes. At home, you can change labor locations, exercise as needed, communicate with as many visitors as you choose and invite an unlimited number of friends and family to the actual birth. Home births allow you to choose special accommodations, such as massage and homeopathic remedies.
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Manage Pain
The serenity of a home birth is often an appealing aspect of the quest, but you must be prepared with relaxation techniques and pain management strategies since pain medication is rarely administered. Arm yourself with music, massage, water therapy and breathing techniques, as well as a support team to manage the pain during labor and delivery. Discuss your preferred methods when meeting with a doula or midwife ahead of time to determine the best approach for your child's arrival.
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